Binion says Za demanded the photog's camera ... threatened to break it ... then tried to wrench it from his hand. Binion claims the struggle lasted 3 to 5 minutes. As for Twist ... Binion says he was egging Za on.

Binion also claims one of the bodyguards threatened him with a gun.

Binion says he was strong armed into deleting the photos ... because a bodyguard had him in a choke hold.

HERE'S THE RUNDOWN Meredith Viera Defends the Killer of Cecil the Lion Jennifer Beals in a Hot-Dog-in-Car Controversy A 'Bachelorette' Star Gets Bashed in the Head with a Brick Zayn Malik is Goin' Solo Thanks to Simon Cowell